BAR1 Motorsports' Marcelli and Cumming win at Austin

BAR1 Motorsports grabbed their first team win at the American Le Mans Series.

After fighting back from the toughest race of their collective careers, BAR1 Motorsports grabbed their first team win at the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patron inaugural race at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.

Making the victory sweeter for the No. 8 Evident Capital car, was knowing it was a flag-to-flag victory by Chris Cumming and Kyle Marcelli, and it was a victory shared by the entire BAR1 team.

PC podium: class winners Kyle Marcelli and Chris Cumming

Photo by: Eric Gilbert

Brian Alder gave credit to the drivers and the crews for both cars and praised their hard work and dedication.

"Since BAR1 was founded two years ago, this is what we have worked so hard for. They say the first win is the hardest to get and I surely agree. While we have been on multiple podiums this year and last, to stand on the top step in the ALMS is nothing short of spectacular. To win at this level of competition, everything must be perfect, and perfect it was.

"Chris Cumming drove an outstanding opening stint handing the car over to Kyle with a 50+ second lead. Chris' drive was what really set the stage for the rest of the race.

"This crew did excellent all week, especially given the disastrous week at Baltimore. These guys won the race for us at the shop. Everything was perfect as soon as we unloaded, allowing us to maximize our track time and nail the set-up. My hats off to everyone of them. They epitomize teamwork.

"Now we are anxious to get to VIR and see if we can repeat the incredible week we had in Texas."

Driver's Kyle Marcelli and Chris Cumming also expressed their excitement getting the win.

Marcelli: "There is nothing more satisfying than winning. Its what fuels us, its why we prepare and its why we compete. At this level of motorsport, winning requires being perfect. Nothing compares to the thrill of victory.

"Finally, I just have to thank the crew. They have worked so hard all season to ensure we have a perfect race car. They definitely deserved the win as a reward."

Chris Cumming: "Wow, what a dream week! We had a really good car from the first practice session. When Saturday rolled around I knew we had a great shot at doing something special.

"To lead wire-to-wire while getting our first ALMS win for both BAR1 and myself is deeply satisfying.

"I need to thank John Travis for a fantastic car and all the crew for their great work under the tent and in pit lane! Once again their work was flawless!"

The No. 7 Secret Life of Walter Mitty car, driven by Rusty Mitchell and Tomy Drissi ran as high as second place in the early going of the race. Unfortunately, Drissi was involved in contact with the CORE car, however both cars continued. Mitchell battled back but sustained some suspension damage with just 10 laps remaining in the race.

Next up for BAR1 Motorsports is the Oak Tree Grand Prix at Virginia International Raceway on Oct. 3-5.